Discover the power of speech to move the world.

If you are interested in the way communication empowers individuals and transforms society, welcome to the Speech Communication major at Iona.

Effective communication skills are highly valued by employers in every field. This is your opportunity to explore the many dimensions of our discipline as you develop into a strong, effective and ethical communicator, able to use your skills to move the world.

The two concentrations in our department are truly student oriented, tailored to meet your needs and goals. You may choose to focus in Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology or Speech Communication. Both majors offer a solid foundation for further study in the field as well as career opportunities in many diverse areas.

Foundation for career success

You will benefit from small class sizes and supportive faculty who provide one-on-one attention and guidance. Our faculty are active practitioners in the field who can help you make the professional connections you’ll need as you enter the workplace. We have a large alumni network to facilitate internship and service-learning opportunities, and we regularly invite guest speakers into the classroom to keep you abreast of opportunities and best practices in the field.

Through our internship program, you will have outstanding opportunities for off-campus placement with organizations such as the March of Dimes, American Diabetes Association, area nursing homes and other internship sites. We offer many service-learning and volunteer opportunities in our classes and you will begin to network as soon as you declare the major. Putting theory into practice, you’ll learn appropriate skills to become a strong, competitive professional.

Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology Major

Through the major in speech-language and audiology, we are committed to the theoretical and applied study of typical and disordered speech and language development and maturation across the lifespan. Students follow the American Speech Language Hearing Association’s (ASHA) KASA requirements and develop their understanding of effective communication as an essential component in the therapeutic relationship. You will have the benefit of working with community members at Iona’s Speech and Language Hearing Clinic.

Course spotlight: Narrative and Storytelling for the Healthcare Professional. In this innovative course, students learn storytelling techniques to help foster a deeper rapport with patients and clients. Students love using the techniques and learn to appreciate the therapeutic value of sharing our stories. This is a unique class only offered at a handful of colleges across the nation.

Speech Communication Major

In our major in speech communication, we are committed to the theoretical and practical study of effective communication in myriad environments. Majors study communication theories in public speaking, interpersonal communication, self-communication, intercultural communication and group communication, and learn to incorporate these theories into their own speaking styles. The program is guided by the National Communication Association’s (NCA) eight public speaking competencies.

You may take advantage of the Speakers’ Center, which provides a place to explore and practice your unique communication style. You can rehearse your public speaking assignments, work on overcoming stage fright and get vocal coaching in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Speech Communication Career Directions

Motivational speaking

Life coaching

Human resources

Patient advocacy

Event Planners

Not-for-profit management

Admissions, student life and higher education

Rehabilitation coordinators

Corporate training

Language development specialist

Career Changers SLPA Prerequisite Program

Prepare for one of the fastest-growing occupations over the next decade. Iona offers visiting students the opportunity to take prerequisite courses in preparation for application to a graduate degree program in Speech-Language Pathology. Classes are offered at night during the fall and spring terms, over our January intersession, and during the summer sessions. We also offer hybrid and distance learning options. Learn more about the SLPA Prerequisite Program.

Speech Students Stand Out

Last year, faculty member Dorothy Leone traveled with eight Iona students to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s conference in Atlanta. The students presented their honors thesis work as well as research developed over several semesters.

Take the Next Step

Student Success

Iona has given me the opportunity to connect with peers, form bonds with faculty, and discover and pursue my passions. Iona College is a place of academic, social, and personal growth inside and outside the classroom.